[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 87 (Thursday, June 21, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1172]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     A TRIBUTE TO MONIQUE GREENWOOD

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 21, 2001

  Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Monique Greenwood for her 
boundless spirit that has allowed her to become a successful 
businesswoman and give back to her community.
  Monique, a native of Washington, D.C., is a magna cum laude graduate 
of Howard University. She is also an alumna of the Program for 
Developing Managers at Simmons Graduate School of Business.
  Greenwood was recently appointed Editor-in-Chief of Essence Magazine, 
the country's leading magazine for African-American women. Since 
joining Essence in 1996, Monique has done stints as Executive Editor, 
Lifestyle Director, and Style Director. Prior to joining Essence, she 
held several senior positions with Fairchild Publications. Working for 
Fairchild, Monique started and headed Children's Business, the industry 
publication for children's fashion.
  Monique has also been met with terrific success as a successful 
restaurateur. In 1995, she launched Akwaaba Mansion, an elegant bed-
and-breakfast in the historic Bedford Stuyvesant Brooklyn community. 
Three years later, Monique and her husband, Glenn Pogue, opened Akwaaba 
Cafe, an elegant restaurant located just down the road from the inn. 
During the summer of 2000, Monique and Glenn unveiled their 
revitalization plan of a commercial block that they own in the Bedford 
Stuyvesant neighborhood. Among the many stores lining the street is the 
quaint coffee house, Mirrors, which the couple own and operate.
  In addition to being the author of a book with another set to be 
published soon, Monique co-founded and serves as national president of 
Go On Girl! Book Club, a literary society for African-American women.
  Monique devotes much of her spare time to serving her community. She 
serves on several boards including the New York Urban League and 
Community Planning Board #3. She is the recipient of numerous honors, 
including a Points of Light Award from President George Bush.
  Being a wife and mother is what Greenwood considers her most 
important and most rewarding role. She and Glenn have a nine-year-old 
daughter.
  Mr. Speaker, Monique Greenwood has devoted her life to serving her 
community through entrepreneurship. As such, she is more than worthy of 
receiving our recognition today. I hope that all of my colleagues will 
join me in honoring this truly remarkable woman.

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